Carolyn Walker

She lived in Pagosa Springs and Colorado Springs moving to Clifton in the early 1940's. In 1950 she graduated from Central High School in Grand Junction. Carolyn married Theodore S. Walker in Grand Junction on April 5, 1959. They made their home together in the Plateau Valley.

For those who loved her, we are sad to have to say goodbye. Carolyn was one of the last of the pioneering women in Western Colorado. At age 88 Carolyn still got up every morning with the sun, worked and maintained her small ranch, had one of the biggest gardens known to humankind, canned most everything she grew, was sometimes meaner than a rattlesnake if a situation called for it, and had no time for undo nonsense.

Direct, but unquestionably warm and kind. Carolyn raised two daughters. In reality she raised more than just her own daughters, as she was a mother to many. Carolyn consistently gave selflessly of herself, her time, and her love. In a very positive way, Carolyn impacted and shaped many lives in her time on earth.

She was known for her meticulous yard work and organic raspberries she raised. Carolyn sold Avon for 36 years in the Plateau Valley and was involved in many school, 4-H, and community related activities. Carolyn was instrumental in the coordination of the annual "Color Sunday" dinner held at the Mesa Community Club for many years. She rode horses in the Collbran riding club and played club volleyball and basketball. Carolyn worked at Mesa Lakes in the 1950's when the Sissac family owned it and again in the 1990's when the Henderson family owned it. It was one of her favorite places to be.

She worked beside her beloved Teddy until his final days. They traveled to the Panama Canal, Alaska, the Caribbean, the Amazon and several trips to Canada to fish and sightsee. They traveled all over the United States to watch rodeos, especially the National Finals.

Carolyn loved riding all-terrain vehicles with Teddy and friends. They chose many areas to explore in the high country of the Colorado Rockies. She also enjoyed good food and wine (even though she ate like a bird). Among friends, she will be remembered as someone who was truly present, a good listener and a loyal friend. She also engaged in witty banter and sarcasm. Not everyone could keep up with her quick mind and incisive clarity. Carolyn had a tender heart and a rare warmth. She will be missed.

Carolyn will be deeply missed by her daughters, Linda K. Hatzenbuehler (Justin) Olathe, CO and Penny J. Walker (Terrill Graf) Grand Junction, CO; grandchildren, Christopher R. Rother (Stephanie) Grand Junction, CO and Melissa R. Rother, Grand Junction, CO; five great grandchildren, two nephews and two nieces.

She is preceded in death by her sisters, Peggy J. Caldwell Grand Junction, and Patsy A. Bieser of Mesa, Colorado.